August is a unique month in the world of birthstones, offering a trio of distinct and beautiful gems: the traditional Sardonyx, the historically significant Peridot, and the modern addition of Spinel. Among these, Peridot stands out with its signature lime-green hue and a fascinating history that stretches back to ancient civilizations. While Spinel and Sardonyx hold their own allure, Peridot has long been considered the primary and most iconic birthstone for those born in the eighth month of the year. This gem is not a product of patient crystallization under immense pressure like many of its counterparts; instead, it is forged in the fiery crucible of the Earth’s mantle and delivered to the surface through volcanic activity. Its journey is as dramatic as its color is vibrant. This article will delve into the rich history, unique geological origins, distinctive gemological properties, and enduring symbolism of Peridot, the celebrated gem of August.
History and Lore: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot’s story is woven through millennia of human history, often shrouded in mystery and confusion. For centuries, this captivating green stone was mistaken for other, more famous gems. Its resemblance to emerald led to significant historical misidentifications. The most famous example is the collection of Cleopatra, the last pharaoh of Egypt. Historians speculate that the "emeralds" she famously wore and prized were, in fact, Peridots. The gem was abundant in Egypt, particularly on the island of Topazios (now Zabargad) in the Red Sea. This island was a major source of Peridot for the ancient world, and its name is the origin of the word "topaz," creating centuries of confusion as Peridot was often sold under the name topaz. This misidentification continued into medieval times. The Cathedral of Cologne in Germany houses the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings, which is adorned with 200 carats of gems that were believed to be emeralds for centuries but are now known to be Peridots.
The etymology of the name "Peridot" itself points to its ancient roots. The word is derived from the Arabic faridat, which simply means "gem." This straightforward, unadorned name belies the gem's complex history and the reverence in which it was held. The ancient Egyptians were among the first to truly value Peridot. They called it the "gem of the sun," believing it was formed from the tears of the sun god, Ra. They thought the stone possessed protective powers, especially against nightmares and evil spirits, and would set it in gold amulets to ward off terrors of the night. This connection to the sun and its life-giving power made Peridot a symbol of light, warmth, and prosperity in the hot, sun-drenched climate of Egypt.
The journey of Peridot from an ancient Egyptian talisman to a recognized modern birthstone is a testament to its enduring appeal. The first standardized list of birthstones was compiled in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers. This list, which has been updated over the years, officially named Peridot as the birthstone for August. Its inclusion on this very first list underscores its long-standing importance in Western gemological tradition. While Sardonyx holds the distinction of being the original, or traditional, August birthstone with a history dating back over 4,000 years to the breastplate of Aaron, Peridot quickly became the more popular and widely recognized choice due to its vibrant color and relative availability. In 2016, the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America further expanded the options for August-born individuals by adding Spinel to the list, creating the trio of August birthstones we know today. However, Peridot remains the quintessential and most celebrated gem of the month.
Geological Formation and Sources: A Gem from the Depths and Beyond
Peridot’s origin story is unlike that of almost any other gemstone. It is a variety of the mineral olivine, a common mineral in the Earth's upper mantle. While many gems are formed in the Earth's crust, Peridot is born from the planet's fiery interior. It is brought to the surface in two dramatic ways: through volcanic activity and, even more remarkably, from outer space.
When the Earth’s mantle melts and erupts as lava, it can carry fragments of olivine with it. As the lava cools, these fragments can form crystals of sufficient size and quality to be cut into gemstones. This makes Peridot one of the few gems that can be found in volcanic rocks. The state of Arizona in the United States is a prime example of this process. The Peridot found there comes from a volcanic formation known as the San Carlos Apache Reservation, which is one of the most significant sources of this gem in the world. The Peridot from this region is known for its bright, lively green color.
The other, more extraordinary, source of Peridot is meteorites. A particularly rare and sought-after variety is known as "pallasitic peridot." These gems are found in pallasite meteorites, which are a type of stony-iron meteorite. These celestial bodies are remnants of the protoplanetary disk that formed our solar system, and they contain crystals of olivine embedded in an iron-nickel matrix. This means that Peridot is, in a very real sense, a gemstone from beyond our world. Pallasitic peridot is chemically almost identical to its terrestrial counterpart but often contains unique needle-like inclusions and is notably missing the element nickel. Its extraterrestrial origin makes it exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors.
In terms of commercial sources, the most significant deposits of gem-quality Peridot are found in a handful of key locations. Arizona remains a major producer, especially of Peridot suitable for smaller commercial jewelry pieces. However, some of the finest and largest Peridot crystals have been discovered in Pakistan, particularly in the remote region of the Kohistan-E, which has yielded spectacular specimens. China is also a notable source of Peridot today. The gem's accessibility is one of its strengths; unlike some gems that are exceedingly rare, Peridot is found in sufficient quantities to be enjoyed by a wide audience. However, this accessibility has a caveat. While Peridot is not considered a "precious" gemstone in the traditional sense (a term often reserved for diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald), its finest specimens are indeed rare and highly valued. Gems with a rich, consistent, vivid green color, free of inclusions, and cut to perfection, especially in larger sizes, are exceptionally rare and sought after by collectors.
Gemological Properties: The Science of the Green Glow
Understanding Peridot requires a look at its fundamental scientific characteristics. As a variety of the mineral olivine, its chemical formula is (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. This formula shows that it is a silicate of magnesium and iron. The specific ratio of iron to magnesium is what determines its color. The more iron present, the greener the stone; a higher magnesium content results in a more yellowish hue. This chemical composition is what gives Peridot its signature yellowish-green to greenish-yellow color range, which is so distinct from other green gems like emerald or tourmaline.
Peridot’s physical properties make it a durable and practical gemstone for jewelry. On the Mohs scale of hardness, it rates between 6.5 and 7. This means it is relatively durable and resistant to scratching from everyday materials, though it is softer than a sapphire (Mohs 9) or diamond (Mohs 10). Its toughness is generally considered good, but like many gemstones, it can be susceptible to chipping if struck with sufficient force, particularly along any cleavage planes it may have. Its refractive index, a measure of how much it bends light, is around 1.65 to 1.69, which gives it a good level of brilliance when cut well.
One of Peridot’s most appealing characteristics is that its color is natural and is not typically enhanced through treatments. Unlike many sapphires or emeralds which are often heated or oiled to improve their appearance, the vibrant green of Peridot comes directly from the Earth. This makes it a favorite among consumers who value natural, untreated gemstones. Its "luster," or the way it reflects light, is typically vitreous, or glass-like, giving it a brilliant and attractive shine.
The color of Peridot is its most defining feature. It ranges from a light, lime-green to a deep olive, but the most prized color is a rich, vibrant olive-green with no hints of brown or yellow. This vivid hue is often described as having an inner glow or fire, which is why it was historically called the "Evening Emerald"—it appears to glow with its own internal light even in dim conditions. This unique color and luminosity are what have captivated humanity for thousands of years and continue to make Peridot a beloved and recognizable gemstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot has been attributed with a wide array of symbolic meanings and metaphysical powers throughout its long history. Its connection to the sun, established by the ancient Egyptians who called it the "gem of the sun," has imbued it with symbolism related to light, warmth, and life-giving energy. It is seen as a stone of positivity, abundance, and renewal. Believers in crystal healing associate Peridot with the heart chakra, believing it can open the heart to give and receive love, and help heal emotional wounds. It is often called the "stone of compassion," thought to soothe anger and jealousy and bring peace and understanding.
Beyond its connection to love and emotional well-being, Peridot has also been traditionally linked to prosperity and good fortune. Its bright, cheerful color is thought to attract wealth and success, making it a popular choice for those seeking to improve their financial situation. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the wearer from harm, particularly from the terrors of the night. This protective quality was a key reason for its use in amulets and talismans.
In modern metaphysical beliefs, Peridot is associated with the zodiac signs of Leo and Virgo, making it a powerful stone for those born under these signs. It is said to enhance the confidence and leadership qualities of Leos while grounding the meticulous and hardworking nature of Virgos. As the birthstone for August, it is believed to bring its wearer good luck, health, and peace. Whether one subscribes to these beliefs or not, the symbolism of Peridot as a stone of light, growth, and positivity adds another layer to its appeal.
Care and Cleaning: Preserving the August Gem
Given its gemological properties, Peridot requires some care to maintain its beauty and integrity. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, it is durable enough for most types of jewelry, including rings, pendants, and earrings. However, it is not as hard as some other gems, so it is susceptible to scratching if it comes into contact with harder materials. To prevent damage, it is best to store Peridot jewelry separately from other pieces, ideally in a soft cloth or a lined jewelry box.
Cleaning Peridot is relatively straightforward. The best method is to use warm, soapy water and a soft brush, such as a toothbrush. Gently scrub the stone and its setting to remove any dirt or oils. Rinse it thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone or its setting. Peridot is also sensitive to rapid temperature changes, so it should not be subjected to extreme heat or sudden cooling, which could cause fractures.
With proper care, a Peridot piece can remain a vibrant and cherished gem for generations. Its accessibility, combined with its stunning color and rich history, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a beautiful and meaningful piece of jewelry. For those born in August, wearing Peridot is a way to connect with a gem that is not only their official birthstone but also a piece of the Earth's—and the universe's—fiery heart.
Conclusion
Peridot, the primary birthstone of August, is a gem of remarkable origin and profound historical significance. Its journey from the Earth's deep mantle and from meteorites sets it apart, while its mistaken identity as emerald in ancient collections adds to its mystique. The ancient Egyptians revered it as the "gem of the sun," and its inclusion on the first birthstone list in 1912 solidified its place as the quintessential August gem. Scientifically, it is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, prized for its distinctive yellowish-green to deep olive color, a result of its iron and magnesium composition. With a respectable hardness of 6.5 to 7, it is a durable choice for jewelry, though it requires proper care to prevent scratching. Its symbolism is tied to light, prosperity, and compassion, making it a meaningful stone for those born in the warm, sunny month of August. While it shares the month with the traditional Sardonyx and the modern Spinel, Peridot's vibrant glow and epic story make it a truly captivating and enduring choice.